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  • Los Angeles Lakers Vs Indiana Pacers: Best Bets, Odds, and Game Analysis

    Los Angeles Lakers Vs Indiana Pacers: Best Bets, Odds, and Game Analysis

    The Los Angeles Lakers (43-28) play the Indiana Pacers (42-29) at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Wednesday. Tip is 7:30 ET on ESPN. Both teams are trying to position themselves for the playoffs so this should be a great game. Let’s get into the NBA odds, storylines and expert picks.

    Season Series Recap

    Lakers lead 1-0 after a 124-117 win on February 8. They won at Crypto.com Arena. But recent form says this one could be different.

    Recent Performances Of Los Angeles Lakers and Indiana Pacers

    Los Angeles Lakers: Struggling to Find Consistency

    The Lakers lost to Orlando 118-106 on Monday night, failed to cover as 4 point road favorite. Luka Doncic had 32 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists. LeBron James had 24 points but couldn’t get the team to win.

    Over their last 3 games the Lakers have been horrible on both ends of the floor, scoring only 103.3 PPG and allowing 127.3 PPG . Even with Doncic averaging 31.2 PPG in March the supporting cast hasn’t stepped up to win games.

    Injury updates show LeBron James (groin), Rui Hachimura (patellar), and Maxi Kleber (patellar) are all probable so there is some uncertainty if they’ll play and how effective they’ll be.

    Indiana Pacers: Riding High on Defensive Dominance

    Meanwhile, the Pacers are on a 5 game win streak and 7 of their last 8. Their defense has been the key to this run, holding teams to 101.6 PPG over the last 3 games.

    Monday’s 119-103 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves showed off their balanced attack. Tyrese Haliburton led the way with 24 points, 11 assists, 4 rebounds, 1 steal, 1 block. He’s one of the most dynamic young guards in the league. Obi Toppin came off the bench and scored 20 points when they needed it most.

    At home, the Pacers are nearly unstoppable with a 24-9 record at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. They’re 4-0 on this homestand and rolling.

    Lakers vs. Pacers Odds

    Here’s a breakdown of the betting lines provided by BetMGM Sportsbook:

    • Moneyline (ML):
      • Lakers: -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
      • Pacers: -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
    • Against the Spread (ATS):
      • Lakers: +1.5 (-118)
      • Pacers: -1.5 (-102)
    • Over/Under (O/U):
      • Total: 235.5
        • Over: -110
        • Under: -110

    Expert Picks and Predictions

    Prediction

    Pacers 120 , Lakers 112

    Moneyline Pick

    BET PACERS (-115)

    Pacers are playing better basketball right now. Defense has tightened up and Haliburton is getting better. Lakers are reeling especially on defense where they’ve given up an average of 127.3 PPG over their last 3 games.

    Even if LeBron James plays, Lakers lack of depth and consistency makes them vulnerable. Pacers’ strong home record (24-9) helps. Expect Pacers to win again.

    Against the Spread

    PASS.

    Small spread (+1.5 for Lakers, -1.5 for Pacers) so no value ATS. Bet moneyline or total.

    Over/Under

    BET UNDER 235.5 (-110).

    Lakers have gone over in 4 of their last 5 but they’ve struggled offensively lately. Pacers have gone under in 7 of their last 10.

    Indiana has been playing defense and Lakers will continue to struggle offensively. Under looks better here.

    Key Injuries to Watch

    Lakers:

    • F Rui Hachimura (patellar): Probable
    • F LeBron James (groin): Probable
    • F Maxi Kleber (patellar): Probable

    Pacers:

    None.

  • Is Luka Doncic’s Selfish Play Costing LeBron James and the Lakers?

    Is Luka Doncic’s Selfish Play Costing LeBron James and the Lakers?

    The LA Lakers have changed overnight since getting Luka Doncic, and are now legitimate contenders. But recent performances have raised some concerns about Doncic’s style of play and how it’s affecting LeBron James. Is Luka’s ball domination causing cracks in what was a budding partnership? Let’s get into it.

    Luka Doncic’s Arrival: A Game-Changer for the Lakers

    There’s no denying Luka Doncic has brought a whole new level of fun to the Lakers. He can create offense out of thin air and has the best court vision in the NBA. Since getting to the Lakers, Doncic has fit in seamlessly with LeBron James, and the two superstars looked like they could lead the team back to the Finals.

    General Manager Rob Pelinka deserves credit for making this happen. Getting Doncic felt like the missing piece. For weeks, the pairing of Doncic and James was unstoppable, with both superstars finding ways to play off each other.

    Recent Signs of Trouble: Ball Hogging Debate Heats Up

    But over the last few games cracks are starting to show in the Lakers. Specifically Luka Doncic holding onto the ball too much is becoming a hot topic. Even Doncic himself said after a recent loss to the Chicago Bulls that the team needs to go back to how they were winning earlier in the season.

    But it wasn’t until Chris Broussard chimed in on Fox Sports that the criticism got out of hand. Broussard didn’t sugarcoat it when talking about the Lakers’ struggles especially the loss to the Orlando Magic:

    “Luka Doncic is a ball hog. A great ball hog. A Hall of Fame ball hog – a future Hall of Famer. An all time ball hog. He’s a ball hog.”

    Broussard elaborated more on how this becomes a problem when paired with someone like LeBron James:

    “This was ridiculous. You got all these guys standing, watching you. He took nine shots in the first quarter… It’s one thing to be a ball hog when you have Tim Hardaway as a teammate. Heck, even Jalen Brunson and Kyrie Irving. But when you are going five out and everybody is standing there, watching you operate and LeBron James is a teammate? That ain’t good.”

    The Defensive Fallout: Morale Takes a Hit

    According to Broussard, Doncic’s ball-dominant style doesn’t just hurt the offense—it also affects the team’s defense. When players are reduced to spectators while Doncic operates, it takes away their engagement on both ends of the floor:

    “This is related to the defense. When you are just watching one guy operate… That takes away from your morale. Especially when that guy can’t defend.”

    Doncic’s defensive limitations have been a topic of discussion for a while now but now they are compounding issues on the offense. If teammates feel disconnected or disengaged because of Doncic’s long possessions, it creates a ripple effect that can crash the whole team.

    Can LeBron James Reign Luka In?

    One solution lies with LeBron James, who is the undisputed leader of the Lakers locker room. According to Broussard, James is the only one who can talk to Doncic:

    “None of the other players can say anything to Luka… He got used to doing this with LeBron out… He’s gotta come back and regroup now that LeBron is back.”

    If Doncic doesn’t change his ways, Broussard says James may need to step in:

    “If he doesn’t, LeBron is the only one [who can talk to him]. I don’t even think Redick could say something. I don’t know if it will come to that.”

    Since they played well together earlier in the season, there’s hope Doncic and James can find their chemistry again. But it will require compromise—and probably some tough conversations—on both sides.

    The Blueprint to Stopping Luka?

    Broussard pointed out that the Orlando Magic showed the blueprint to defend against Doncic and the Lakers. Force him into isolation and dare others to beat you and they can exploit the lack of movement and ball sharing in the Lakers offense.

    Will this work? We’ll see. But it’s clear Doncic needs to adapt to his teammates not the other way around.

  • JJ Redick Tells Lakers to Focus, Not Complain About the Schedule

    JJ Redick Tells Lakers to Focus, Not Complain About the Schedule

    The Los Angeles Lakers are in the middle of their toughest stretch of the season with games against the Denver Nuggets and Milwaukee Bucks on back to back nights. Add in injuries and fatigue and it’s clear this is a tough period for the team. But head coach JJ Redick has made it clear: no excuses or complaints about the schedule.

    Redick’s No-Excuses Mentality

    “No One Is Going to Feel Sorry for Us”

    During a recent team meeting, JJ Redick called out the Lakers’ excuses. When star point guard Chris Paul mentioned how tough the schedule was, Redick used it as an opportunity to tell the team to stop whining.

    “It was a couple weeks ago during film session at the facility,” Redick said. “I told them straight up: no one is going to feel sorry for us. Back-to-backs? Tough matchups? That’s just part of being in the NBA.”

    Redick said every team faces these kinds of challenges at some point in the season. For the Lakers, this stretch is six games in eight days with three consecutive back-to-backs—a tough ask for any team. But instead of focusing on that, Redick wants his players to have a “next-game mentality.”

    “You gotta play the game in front of you and then move on to the next thing,” he said. “Try to get better each day.”

    Injuries and Roster Issues

    Winning Through Adversity

    The Lakers just got through a four game road trip where they went 0-4, largely due to missing key rotation players like LeBron James. Despite all that, the team has shown some resilience since getting back home and won two in a row against the San Antonio Spurs and Phoenix Suns.

    LeBron and Rui Hachimura are close to returning and the Lakers are hopeful to get full strength back. But even as reinforcements arrive, Redick knows the schedule doesn’t get any easier. He emphasized the importance of staying focused and not getting bogged down by what’s ahead.

    “This two week stretch, starting with Boston and ending with this homestand, was always going to be tough,” Redick said. “There will still be tough parts of the schedule left but we can’t afford to dwell on that. We have to take it one game at a time.”

    Jordan Goodwin’s Role and Contract Dilemma

    One player who has emerged as a key contributor during this stretch is Jordan Goodwin. Signed to a two way contract earlier in the season, Goodwin has earned the coaches trust with his non stop energy and defensive tenacity. After the Lakers win over the Spurs, Redick praised Goodwin.

    “He’s really earned the coaches trust,” Redick said. “But unfortunately that’s the nature of two way contracts, they’re complicated.”

    Goodwin has played in 14 games so far, started three but his eligibility is limited to 50 games unless the Lakers convert his deal to a standard NBA contract by April 13. With only five games left before he hits that cap, the front office has a decision to make: waive someone to create roster space or risk losing Goodwin’s contributions down the stretch.

    Roster Crunch

    Redick said managing the roster has become a tightrope and with Trey Jemison III also on a two way deal, its even more complicated. Both have played well so the Lakers have to think long and hard.

    “It’s something we’re just gonna manage,” Redick said. “Right now with guys out we can’t afford to have [Goodwin] out of the rotation. As we get healthy we’ll reassess.”

    Waiving a guy like Cam Reddish—an offseason signing who has fallen out of the rotation—would seem to be the easy solution but Redick and the front office aren’t in a rush to make moves. They’re using these last few weeks of the season to evaluate every piece of the puzzle.

    Focus on Health and Winning

    Despite all the struggles, the Lakers are still in the playoffs conversation, currently 5th in the west. Their defense has been great since they got Dorian Finney-Smith in December, 4th in efficiency. LeBron, Luka and Austin Reaves are all playing above their normal defensive selves and we can hope for a deep run.

    Finney-Smith echoed Redick’s comments after the Suns win, “We can beat any team in the league when we keep them under 100. All we gotta do is play defense.”

    As they get into the final stretch of the season, the Lakers focus is on being healthy, winning and getting ready for the playoffs. With Redick’s leadership and a sense of accountability, they’re ready for whatever’s ahead.

  • Can Luka Doncic and the Lakers’ Defense Lead to an NBA Title in 2025?

    Can Luka Doncic and the Lakers’ Defense Lead to an NBA Title in 2025?

    The Los Angeles Lakers have faced a lot of challenges this year but one thing is clear: their defense has gotten way better. After trading Anthony Davis for Luka Doncic and using two-way players, the Lakers are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA. With LeBron back and their new defensive identity, can this be the formula for a deep playoff run or even a championship?

    Lakers’ Defensive Turnaround

    At the start of the season the Lakers were 17th in defensive efficiency under Darvin Ham. Fast forward to today and they’re 4th in defensive efficiency since getting Dorian Finney-Smith on December 31. Before he got here they were 21st.

    What changed? The Lakers adopted a new philosophy of intensity, communication and adaptability. Coach JJ Redick implemented a system that uses what he calls “banshees” – players like Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent and Finney-Smith who bring relentless energy and disrupt the opposing team’s offense.

    “We were switching off the right guys,” Redick said after their win over the Suns. “We made it tough for them to get shots and when they did we contested everything.”

    This is working. From January 30 to March 6 the Lakers were the NBA’s best defensive team, first in opponent 3-point shooting and second in transition defense. Packing the paint and forcing teams into tough shots has been the key to their success.

    Luka Doncic: Unexpected Defensive Asset

    Defying Expectations

    When the Lakers traded for Luka Doncic, everyone wondered how his defensive limitations would affect the team. He’s more of an offensive wizard than a defensive stopper. But under Redick’s guidance, he’s surprising everyone.

    Since February 10, Doncic has held opponents to 0.81 points per isolation possession, 3rd among players who’ve defended 40+ isolation plays. He’s communicating and playing within the team’s system and is a better defender than ever.

    Even LeBron James and Austin Reaves, who aren’t defensive players, are playing above their standards. As one Western Conference scout said, “Even their biggest defensive liabilities are playing well above their standards.”

    Key Players Driving the Defensive Turnaround

    Dorian Finney-Smith: The Defensive Anchor

    Finney-Smith was the game-changer for the Lakers. 6’7” 220 lbs, he brings size, strength and versatility to the wing. But more importantly he embodies the “banshee” mentality that Redick talks about.

    “Coach JJ told me to be a communicator, use my voice and shoot when I’m open,” Finney-Smith said. “I try to come in, bring energy and play hard.”

    His impact is huge. Since he’s been with the Lakers, the team’s defensive efficiency has gone from 21st to 4th in the league.

    Jordan Goodwin: The Hidden Gem

    Signed to a two way contract in February Jordan Goodwin has become a fan favorite. At 6-3 he plays bigger than his height, he averaged double digit rebounds in college at Saint Louis. Redick said Goodwin “sets the tone” defensively “he flies around and causes chaos”

    But Goodwin’s playoff eligibility is uncertain. Two way players can only play in 50 games in the regular season so the Lakers have to make a decision by April 13 if they want him to be available for the playoffs.

    Challenges Ahead

    Roster Spot Management

    The Lakers have all 15 roster spots filled now so they can’t convert Goodwin or Trey Jemison III (another key contributor) to a standard contract. Waiving a player like Cam Reddish (a former rotation player now out of favor) could free up space but that won’t be an easy decision.

    As the season winds down the Lakers will have to balance their roster while keeping key contributors eligible for the playoffs. As a source close to the team says “it’s a good problem to have” but it’s still a problem that needs to be navigated.

    Upcoming Games

    The Lakers have 15 tough games left and 4 of them are against top 10 offenses (Denver, Memphis, Oklahoma City). These games will be a test for their championship hopes.

    “We can beat any team in the league when we keep them under 100” Finney-Smith said. With LeBron, Luka and Reaves leading the charge offensively the Lakers defense might just be the key to their title.

  • Are the Lakers Really Saving the NBA? Kendrick Perkins Seems to Think So

    Are the Lakers Really Saving the NBA? Kendrick Perkins Seems to Think So

    The Los Angeles Lakers are on a seven game winning streak and the Luka Doncic trade has totally changed the Western Conference playoff race. Overnight they went from being a bad team to one of the most exciting teams in the league. But according to ESPN’s Kendrick Perkins the Lakers aren’t just saving their season they are saving the NBA.

    Why Perkins Believes the Lakers Are Saving the NBA?

    On NBA Today yesterday Perkins made the declaration: “Right now the Los Angeles Lakers are saving the NBA”

    Perkins went on to explain why he thinks that’s true. A month ago before the Lakers got Luka Doncic the NBA Finals didn’t seem like a must watch event for many fans. But now? With Showtime back in LA and the possibility of marquee matchups—Boston vs. Lakers—the excitement around the league has gone through the roof.

    “So now you can honestly say you’re more excited because we could get Boston vs. Lakers with the superstar power,” Perkins said. “When you have Showtime back in LA now all of a sudden the excitement, the energy and everything else is back towards the NBA.”

    Why the Lakers’ Run Matters

    There is no denying the Lakers are the talk of the town. Their hot streak has brought new life to the league at a time it needed it. After an underwhelming All-Star Weekend and a subsequent NHL tournament that stole the spotlight, the NBA was in dire need of a shot in the arm. Enter the Lakers.

    Lakers as the League’s Savior

    • Star Power: LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Luka Doncic are the most exciting trio in the NBA.
    • Rivalries: A Celtics-Lakers NBA Finals is enough to bring in massive viewership.
    • Showtime is Back: The Lakers’ fast pace and high scoring reminds us of the Magic Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar days and brings back nostalgia for old school fans.

    ESPN/ABC can’t be happier about the Lakers making a deep playoff run. They’ll get more eyeballs than any other team, so higher ratings and more interest in the league.

    What About the Others?

    Perkins’ comments highlight the Lakers’ impact but also raise questions about the smaller market teams. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder were having great seasons before the Lakers’ run—but did anyone notice?

    For Cavs and Thunder fans, the idea that the NBA needed saving might hurt. Both teams have been their usual selves this season and neither has gotten nearly as much attention as the Lakers have recently. This is the ongoing problem between large market teams and small market teams when it comes to getting fan attention.

    Was the NBA really in trouble?

    To be fair, it wasn’t as bad as some made it out to be. The All-Star Weekend wasn’t as good as expected, but the league is still one of the biggest sports entities in the world. But there’s no denying the Lakers are adding an extra layer of excitement to the second half of the season.

  • Lakers Fans Under Fire for Accusing Karl-Anthony Towns Ahead of Knicks Game

    Lakers Fans Under Fire for Accusing Karl-Anthony Towns Ahead of Knicks Game

    The New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers rivalry isn’t just happening on the court, it’s been happening online for days. Ahead of Thursday night’s game at Crypto.com Arena, social media became a battleground as fans went head to head over Karl-Anthony Towns’ availability.

    Social Media Drama Ignites Tensions

    Before tip off, Lakers fans were saying KAT was sitting out Tuesday’s game against the Golden State Warriors to rest for the Lakers game. That was despite reports he missed the game for “personal reasons” which later turned out to be a family emergency.

    Lakers Fans Say KAT Was “Resting”

    One fan on X (formerly Twitter) said “Bro was resting for the Lakers.”
    Another said “They always return vs Lakers.” referencing Luka Doncic’s trend of opponents prioritizing games against LA.

    Some even joked about it, with one fan saying “You know why Jesus rose three days later? He was playing the Lakers the next day.”

    But when the news came out about the personal nature of KAT’s absence (his girlfriend Jordyn Woods had posted about a loved one with cancer), many of the Lakers fans who had accused him started apologizing. But the damage was done and Knicks fans were quick to fire back.

    Knicks Fans Strike Back

    New York fans didn’t take kindly to the criticism and roasted Lakers fans for being arrogant.

    • “Weirdo laker fans think the world revolves around their team and ppl plan on returning against them,” said one Knicks fan.
    • A Boston Celtics supporter added, “Laker fans thinking the world revolves around them when one of his family members is dealing with cancer.”
    • Another user fired back, “Lakers fans are a bunch of narcissists.”

    The back and forth only adds to the already high stakes for this game.

    Why This Game Matters

    Thursday’s game features two of the best teams in the league. The Lakers (39-21), led by LeBron James, are on a 17-3 tear. The Knicks (40-21), with Jalen Brunson and now Towns back, are in 3rd place in the East.

    With both teams fighting for position, this game means something – not just for bragging rights but for playoff seeding.

    Karl-Anthony Towns’ Impact

    Towns will be huge for the Knicks especially since they’re 3-4 without him this season. New York is 24.5/13.4 with him on the court, he’s a big part of their success.

    Against a Lakers team that’s 11-2 since they got Luka from the Mavericks – the Knicks will need all of Towns’ production to keep up.

  • Lakers Make Bold Move with Austin Reaves Ahead of Pelicans Showdown

    Lakers Make Bold Move with Austin Reaves Ahead of Pelicans Showdown

    The Los Angeles Lakers have won six in a row and 16 of their last 19. A big part of that is Austin Reaves, who has been on another level since the Luka Doncic trade. But now Reaves’ calf strain has him questionable for Tuesday’s game against Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans.

    Reaves’ Play Since Luka Doncic’s Trade

    Since being paired with Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves has been a stud for the Lakers. In five of his first seven games with Doncic, Reaves scored 15+ points. He’s averaging career highs of 19.1 points and 6.0 assists per game overall and is one of LA’s most reliable players.

    But Reaves’ momentum hit a snag in the Lakers’ 106-102 win over the Clippers. He suffered a calf strain in the first quarter and only played nine minutes, scoring eight points. He missed the rematch on Sunday, his sixth game of the 2024-25 season.

    Injury Report Before Pelicans Game

    The Lakers released their injury report for Tuesday’s game against the Pelicans on Monday. Reaves is questionable as he continues to recover from his calf strain. His status will be updated closer to tip-off but his absence would definitely be a huge blow to the rotation.

    Other Injuries to Watch

    • Luka Doncic: Also questionable after a knee contusion Sunday. He briefly left the game to go to the locker room but returned. His status is a big deal for the Lakers moving forward.
    • LeBron James: Probable with his left foot management. LeBron has been playing through discomfort and he’s probable so he’ll play against the Pelicans.

    Why Reaves’ Availability Matters

    Reaves has been a key part of the Lakers’ winning streak. His scoring, playmaking and defense have been a big factor in the team’s success. Without him the Lakers might struggle to maintain the rhythm especially against the Pelicans and Zion Williamson.

    If Reaves can’t play the Lakers will probably rely more on LeBron, Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell to carry the load. Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura might see more minutes to fill the void.

    Upcoming Schedule: Tough Road Ahead for the Lakers

    After Tuesday’s game against the Pelicans the Lakers have a tough stretch:

    • Thursday: Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks at home.
    • Saturday: Road game against the defending champion Boston Celtics.

    These games will test the Lakers’ depth and resilience especially if Reaves and Doncic are limited or out.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Austin Reaves and the Lakers

    Is Austin Reaves playing against the Pelicans?

    Reaves is questionable with his calf strain. His status will be updated closer to game time but be prepared for him to sit out.

    How big is Reaves to the Lakers?

    Reaves has been a key player this season averaging 19.1 points and 6.0 assists per game – both career highs. His scoring and playmaking have been big for the Lakers’ winning streak.

    What happened to Reaves in the Clippers game?

    Reaves suffered a calf strain in the first half of the Lakers’ 106-102 win over the Clippers. He played only 9 minutes and didn’t return to the game.

    Who else is hurt for the Lakers?

    Luka Doncic is also questionable with a knee contusion, LeBron James is probable with his left foot injury. Their status will be updated closer to game time.

    Can the Lakers win without Reaves?

    While the Lakers have depth, losing Reaves hurts their offense and versatility. They’ll need big games from LeBron, Davis and others to make up for his absence.

  • Is LeBron James Ready to Face the Pelicans? Lakers Fans Eager for Answers

    Is LeBron James Ready to Face the Pelicans? Lakers Fans Eager for Answers

    The Los Angeles Lakers are getting ready for a big game against the New Orleans Pelicans but all eyes are on LeBron James and his injury status. The 21-time All-Star has been dealing with a left foot injury for most of the season and is listed as probable for Tuesday’s game. But his availability is the big question as the Lakers look to get a win.

    LeBron James: Probable but Managing a Left Foot Injury

    According to Dave McMenamin of ESPN, LeBron James is probable to play against the Pelicans despite the left foot injury. The injury has been a nagging issue all season but LeBron has played through it all year. He’s a true marvel at his age.

    Why It Matters?

    LeBron is essential for the Lakers, especially against a banged up Pelicans team. New Orleans may not be at full strength but every win counts in the Western Conference standings. If LeBron sits out it could be a big blow to the Lakers chances to get a win.

    Other Lakers to Watch

    Luka Doncic: Questionable with Right Knee Contusion

    Five time All-NBA First Team guard Luka Doncic is questionable for Tuesday’s game with a right knee contusion. Doncic has been the Lakers since the trade last month and his absence would be huge.

    Austin Reaves: Struggling with Right Calf Strain

    Austin Reaves, one of the Lakers most improved players this season, is also questionable with a right calf strain. Reaves has been dealing with a calf strain and will be limited if he plays. His two way play has been huge especially on the offensive end.

    Jordan Goodwin: Out with Right Ankle Sprain

    Defensive specialist Jordan Goodwin is out with a right ankle sprain. His size and tenacity on defense was a key rotational piece especially when Gabe Vincent went into JJ Redick’s rotations. Without Goodwin the Lakers lose some defensive versatility.

    Rui Hachimura: Dealing with Left Patellar Tendinopathy

    Starting forward Rui Hachimura is out with left patellar tendinopathy. Hachimura had recently been playing small ball center in Redick’s system so his absence is even bigger.

    Maxi Kleber: Still Recovering from Surgery

    New power forward/center Maxi Kleber is out as he continues to recover from January surgery on his right foot. As the second best player in the Lakers mega-trade for Doncic Kleber’s return will be huge for the frontcourt depth.

  • Why Jeanie Buss Believes Bronny James Is Ready to Make an Impact in the NBA?

    Why Jeanie Buss Believes Bronny James Is Ready to Make an Impact in the NBA?

    Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss has been a big fan of rookie Bronny James since the Lakers selected him in the second round of the 2024 NBA Draft. While Bronny hasn’t seen much action with the main team, he’s been making noise in the G-League with the South Bay Lakers.

    Jeanie Buss on Bronny James: ‘We Love Having Him’

    Bronny James, son of NBA legend LeBron James, has had his fair share of criticism since entering the league. But his work ethic and focus have impressed Jeanie Buss, who recently raved about the 20-year-old.

    “Oh, I love having [Bronny on the team,]” Buss told People. “If we could have a team full of players with his work ethic, his focus—we love having him as part of the organization. He’s been great to work with.”

    Bronny’s journey hasn’t been easy, but his recent G-League play has been getting attention. Despite a tough shooting night in a recent loss to the Salt Lake City Stars where he was 6-of-19 from the field, Bronny has been trending up. Over his last six G-League games he’s averaging 22.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 2.2 steals while shooting 45.9% from the field and 42.6% from three.

    Bronny’s development and learning from Luka Dončić

    Bronny’s time with the Lakers has given him the chance to learn from one of the best in the league, Luka Dončić. Traded to the Lakers before the deadline, Dončić has become a key player for the team and a role model for Bronny.

    When asked what he’s taken from Dončić, Bronny said patience and unpredictability.

    “Just his patience. Just being able to be unpredictable,” Bronny told Raj Chipalu. “I think that’s the thing I’ve seen most about him. You never know what he’s going to do. So, I think that’s the best thing I’ve seen so far from him. He hasn’t been here for long, so I just keep trying to pick up stuff from him.”

    Bronny’s NBA Career So Far

    Bronny made history with his father LeBron James when they became the first father-son duo to play together in an NBA game during the Lakers’ 2024-2025 season opener against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Since then Bronny has played 17 games with the Lakers, his last one against the Utah Jazz on February 12 being his best. In that game he scored 9 points on 3-4 shooting and had 1 assist.

    Before joining the Lakers Bronny played one season at USC where he averaged 4.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 2.1 assists per game. His college stats were modest but his growth in the G-League is promising.

    What’s next for Bronny and the Lakers?

    Now the big question is will Bronny get called back up to the main roster. With the next game against the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday March 2 at 6:30 p.m. PT, we will see if Bronny will get another chance to play with his dad and Dončić.

  • Lakers Eyeing $160M Thunder Star: Could This Be the Missing Piece for LeBron and Luka?

    Lakers Eyeing $160M Thunder Star: Could This Be the Missing Piece for LeBron and Luka?

    The Los Angeles Lakers are making some noise in the West after a 23 point win over the 2023 NBA champions Denver Nuggets. LeBron and Luka are still building their chemistry and the Lakers are looking to add a veteran to the roster. One name that’s been floated as a target is future Hall of Famer Chris Paul who could become available via buyout.

    Why Chris Paul?

    Chris Paul is with the San Antonio Spurs and finds himself in a interesting situation. The Spurs just traded for De’Aaron Fox and with franchise cornerstone Victor Wembanyama out for the season the team is in transition mode. This has sparked rumors that Paul and the Spurs might mutually agree to part ways and allow the 12 time All Star to chase his first NBA championship.

    Fadeaway World has already pegged the Lakers as a likely destination for Paul if he hits the buyout market. “The Spurs are in an awkward position—too talented to tank naturally but not competitive enough to make a real playoff push without their franchise star,” wrote Eddie Bitar of Fadeaway World. “It took over a decade but Chris Paul might finally get his shot to wear the purple and gold.”

    Chris Paul’s Legacy and Fit with the Lakers

    At 39 years old Chris Paul has had a Hall of Fame career. From his early days with the New Orleans Hornets to his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder and Phoenix Suns he’s been one of the most reliable point guards in the league. Leadership, basketball IQ and ability to raise teammates up is what he’s known for and he’s still a valuable asset even at his age.

    For the Lakers adding Paul would be a game changer. His friendship with LeBron and his reputation as one of the most versatile players in NBA history makes him a perfect fit. Paul’s playmaking, veteran savvy and ability to control the tempo of the game could be the stability and leadership the Lakers need for a deep playoff run.

    How Would Chris Paul Help the Lakers?

    1. Playmaking and Ball Handling: Paul can run an offense and create for others which would take pressure off LeBron and Luka and allow them to focus on scoring and defense.
    2. Veteran Leadership: With 19 years of NBA experience Paul’s presence in the locker room would be priceless especially in big moments.
    3. Clutch Performances: Paul has a history of stepping up in big moments, the Lakers could rely on that in close games.
    4. Defensive IQ: Despite his age Paul is still a smart and pesky defender that can harass opposing guards.

    What’s Next for the Lakers?

    The Lakers have a day off before their next game, but the front office is likely working behind the scenes to explore the possibility of adding Chris Paul. If the deal goes through, it could be the missing piece the Lakers need to solidify their championship aspirations.